Postdoctoral Researcher in Anthropology, Sociology, Political Science, or Law at the Geneva Graduate Institute Geneva Graduate Institute in Switzerland

Call for applications for a fully funded postdoctoral researcher position at the Geneva Graduate Institute in Switzerland. The post is part of the ERC Starting Grant project ICONS: Exploring Global Iconoclastic Politics in the 21st Century, based in the Centre for Digital Humanities and Multilateralism within the Department of Anthropology and Sociology.

The project studies the global dimension of iconoclasm—the deliberate destruction of visual signs such as monuments and images—through social anthropology, political theory, legal analysis, and visual culture. The advertised subproject focuses on the transatlantic context, especially the USA, and examines monument removals triggered by racial violence, hashtag activism, social media activism, political group-building, historical truth-seeking, and the transnational resonance of local actions.

The successful candidate will lead one ethnographic subproject under the supervision of PI Dr. Nataliya Tchermalykh. Responsibilities include independent fieldwork (9–12 months), participant observation, semi-structured interviews, archival and legal document analysis, participation in seminars and writing camps, co-authoring publications, presenting at conferences, contributing to outreach, and helping organize workshops and the closing conference.

Eligibility highlights: PhD completed before the start date in anthropology, sociology, political science, law, or a closely related field; strong qualitative research skills; experience with digital research methods is an advantage; strong knowledge of North American politics, race, and memory is highly desirable; willingness to conduct extended fieldwork in the USA.

Funding and duration: 2-year contract, up to 70% activity rate (28 hours/week), fully funded. No stipend amount is specified in the post.

Deadline: 5 June 2026.

How to apply: Submit a single PDF application with a cover letter (max 2 pages), full CV including two referees, publication list, and a writing sample of up to 10,000 words. Applications by post or direct email will not be considered.